The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) came into effect on 25
May this year and had a significant impact on businesses around the
world ahead of its implication. The European legislation enhances the
rights of European Union (EU) citizens and brings together data
protection law across the EU’s member states. The rules are now more
relevant than previous legislation as they account for the data issues
that have come with technological advancements, such as the thriving
world of social media and greater online activity.
For all organisations, a lot of preparation was needed to ensure they
were GDPR compliant ahead of the legislation coming into force. And
this didn’t only impact those within the EU – even organisations outside
the EU that process or hold data relating to EU residents also have to
comply with GDPR. But what is worth noting since the rules have come
into action?
Obviously, the fear around GDPR is based on the fines that come with
non-compliance. However, there are benefits to the implementation of the
regulation.
For example, for those customers that have given permission for your
organisation to hold data on them, make good use of it. These are the
customers that you have the opportunity to understand and who want to
hear from you. Provide them with relevant and valuable information, and
establish a positive relationship with them to maintain the ability to
contact them to offer a greater customer experience.
When it does come to the request from a customer to have their data
removed, however, hurdles can occur for organisations with multiple
locations. Just because a customer’s data has been removed from a branch
office, for example, doesn’t mean it has been removed from its
headquarters’ server. Having appropriate monitoring systems in place to
ensure this is important for compliance with GDPR.
Speaking of the monitoring process, this is something that should not
be taken for granted. It is not simply a case of implementing a
monitoring process and not doing anything further. The regulations need
to be kept on top of, and that means being aware of any changes that
will occur. Authorities will enhance, change and update the regulations
over time, so don’t be complacent. To ensure your business is and
remains compliant, the regulations should consistently be monitored.